Research project for overcoming social, economic and health disparity among seniors living in metropolitan areas

Leader :
Shuichi Obuchi
Members :
Hunkyung Kim, Yoshinori Fujiwara, Tatsuro Ishizaki, Akihito Ishigami, Yutaka Watanabe, Hisashi Kawai

Research for overcoming social, economic and health disparity among seniors living in metropolitan areas

1. Research for overcoming social, economic and health disparity among elderly living in metropolitan areas

Using a longitudinal study design, this research aims to explore the correlation between economic and social disparity on the health of elderly living in metropolitan areas. With rapid social structure changes likely in the near future, we believe it will affect the health of seniors, particularly those who have difficulty adapting to change. The main target of this study are urban dwelling seniors who have dropped out of previous studies. These seniors demonstrate difficulty adjusting to changes in their health and living environment, putting them at higher risk of social isolation. Through cooperation with local governments, we can determine use-patterns of social resources - such as medical treatment, care, welfare, and community activities- by city-dwelling seniors, determining those who are at high risk for becoming socially isolated.
This project is conducted in close cooperation with our institute and hospital section. By cooperating with local governments in Tokyo, we will not only be able to present the issues of isolated elderly, but additionally develop a new model of local community services that address this need. We will furthermore collaborate with private enterprises and groups constructing of a social support network for urban dwelling elderly to develop an implementation system for action research.